WNBA Mock Draft: UCLA and South Carolina Stars Shine Early

As the excitement builds for the 2026 NCAA women’s basketball national championship, where UCLA and South Carolina will battle it out, WNBA enthusiasts are already considering the implications for next month’s draft. Both teams have showcased remarkable talent this season, and now eight players from these powerhouse programs are projected to be selected in the first round of the upcoming WNBA Draft, according to CBS Sports.

This Sunday afternoon, the Bruins will take on the Gamecocks in a highly anticipated clash for the title. UCLA advanced to this stage after a hard-fought victory against Texas in the Final Four, while South Carolina pulled off a stunning upset against UConn, ending the Huskies’ perfect season. The Gamecocks are looking to avenge their loss in last year’s championship game, adding an extra layer of intensity to this matchup.

In preparation for the April 13 draft, the order was finalized thanks to a coin flip that determined the positions of the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo. The Tempo will have the sixth overall pick, while the Fire will follow closely at seventh. The Fire also acquired the 17th pick through trades related to the expansion draft. The Chicago Sky will be selecting at 21, and the Tempo will round out their picks at 26.

Unlike previous drafts where the first selection was often predetermined, this year has sparked significant discussion among analysts and fans alike about the Dallas Wings’ top pick. Head coach Curt Miller faces a crucial decision that could impact the franchise’s future. Who will they choose, and how will the rest of the draft unfold?

As the championship game approaches, CBS Sports has released its latest mock draft, projecting the following picks for the first round:

1. **Dallas Wings: Awa Fam – C, Spain**
The 19-year-old center has made waves with her impressive performances overseas, showcasing skills that could translate well into the WNBA.

2. **New York Liberty: Aaliyah Edwards – F, Canada**
Edwards has been a standout for the Gamecocks, contributing both offensively and defensively, making her a prime candidate for the Liberty.

3. **Chicago Sky: Charisma Osborne – G, UCLA**
With her scoring ability and playmaking skills, Osborne is seen as an essential asset for a Sky team looking to bolster their backcourt.

4. **Los Angeles Sparks: Aliyah Boston – F/C, South Carolina**
A versatile forward/center, Boston could provide immediate impact with her defensive prowess and rebounding skills.

5. **Seattle Storm: Kiki Rice – G, UCLA**
Rice’s exceptional passing and court vision make her a valuable pick for a Storm team looking to rejuvenate its roster.

As reported by CBS Sports, these projections highlight not only the talent on display in the championship game but also the potential future stars of the WNBA. The excitement surrounding the draft and the national title game illustrates the depth of talent in women’s college basketball today.

With the spotlight on UCLA and South Carolina, fans can expect an electrifying championship showdown that will shape the future of the WNBA as these athletes look to leave their mark on the league.